Psycologist Calls for Mindset Shift to Reduce Workplace Stress, Boost Productivity

By: Solomon Nartey Tetteh

Clinical Psychologist and Medical Director of the UPSA Clinic, Dr. Isaac Newman Arthur, has urged organisations to rethink how work systems are designed, warning that stressful and rigid workplace environments ultimately undermine productivity and employee wellbeing.
Speaking on Business Breakfast on Zed FM, Dr. Arthur noted that while institutions often rely heavily on established systems to get work done, those same systems can become problematic if they fail to prioritise the human element.
“We have built systems, and based on those systems, we require certain things to be done. That is where the problem starts,” he said.
Dr. Arthur pointed to examples of organisations where staff work remotely and remain highly productive, questioning how such productivity is achieved and why similar principles cannot be adapted more broadly. According to him, the key lies not necessarily in whether employees work remotely or from a physical office, but in a fundamental change in mindset.
“I think that it starts with a change of mind and perception about life, and how life must be. If organisations are going to change how we see life and how things have to be done, then we will be able to implement systems that can make things work,” he explained.
He stressed that even in traditional office settings where employees are required to be physically present, the work environment must be made more convenient and humane. This includes allowing workers adequate rest and ensuring they are not overworked.
Dr. Arthur warned that excessive stress has serious consequences for both performance and health. Citing research findings, he said stress leads to poor performance, increased mistakes, higher staff turnover and a rise in legal and professional challenges.
He cautioned that overworked health professionals are more likely to make errors, experience burnout and engage in harmful coping behaviours, with grave implications for patient safety.
Dr. Arthur called on employers to design work systems that recognise human limits, arguing that healthier work environments are not only better for employees but also essential for sustainable productivity and organisational success.